Athena Scholarship

Founded in 2002, the Athena Education Fund was created to acknowledge and reward local Berrien County students. These young, high school students embody the altruistic spirit shared with The Women’s Service League. The graduating seniors who have received this honor in past years comprehend the vital role that volunteering plays in every community. Previous beneficiaries, as well as future recipients, should have a proven track record for integrating philanthropic work as part of their high school career.

Each year, The Athena Education Fund awards one $1,000 Educational Fund to one or more high school students in the senior year of study. The student(s) awarded will have demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism through many avenues including school, church, private youth groups, community organizations and charities. Preference will be given to females but males are eligible to apply. Through this program, we hope to encourage every applicant to include philanthropic work as part of a life-long endeavor.

The History and Name of The Athena Scholarship

According to Greek Mythology, Athena, daughter of Zeus, is a fierce and brave protector who fights enemies to preserve the state and the home. Athena is the goddess of her city because she embodies wisdom, reason and purity. Her accomplishments represent strength, pride, bravery and resourcefulness.

Historically, Women’s Service League was a Greek organization named “Tau Sigma”, or "truth seekers". In honor of this Greek heritage, and in keeping with the attributes of Athena, the name of our Education Fund reflects that of the strong females in our community and especially the original seven women who founded Women’s Service League.

2014- Mari Henderson, Berrien Springs High School
Hannah Montgomery, Niles High School
Eleanor Hein, Niles High School

2013 – Grace Cravens, St Joseph High School

2013 – Anna Graff, New Buffalo High School

2012 – Taylor Stowe, Niles High School

2011 – Shannon VanPelt, New Buffalo High School

2010 – Olivia Postelli, St Joseph High School

2009 – Rhiannon Lyness, Benton Harbor High School

2008 – Jessica Anzures, Andrew Academy in Berrien Springs

2007 – Stephanie Smiy, St Joseph High School

2006 – Kristy Weage, Lakeshore High School

2005 – Nora Croach, St. Joseph High School

2005 – Mariam Eskander, Niles High School

2004 – Bridgett Blough, Lake Michigan Catholic

We Need Your Support!

Every little bit helps.

If you would like to make a donation in the form of a tax-deductible financial contribution to our scholarship fund, or one of our annual events, please send a check (made out to Women’s Service League) or use the PayPal link.

Featured Charity

Suitcases for Kids

Becoming a foster kid and staying in foster care is a sad and lonely time for any child. Most children in foster care carry their belongings in black garbage bags when moved to foster care and each child averages seven moves while in foster care. WSL would like to encourage you to donate. Items must be new; no used items can be accepted. Items that foster kids need include new small duffle bags or backpacks, clothing and personal healthcare items like diapers/pull ups (all sizes) underwear & t-shirts (all sizes), pajamas/socks (all sizes), wet wipes, shampoo, soaps, sanitary items, combs and brushes, deodorant, and toothpaste. Often foster kids will miss birthday, graduation, and other celebrations so gifts of cards, watches, handheld video games, cologne, and aftershave can bring a smile as well.